As a truck driver or owner, you know your vehicle is essential to your livelihood. It’s important to take preventative measures to keep your truck running smoothly, but you also need to be prepared in case of an unexpected breakdown. Let’s look at some common reasons trucks break down.
1. Alternator Issue
The alternator generates electricity for your truck’s electrics; without it, the engine cannot charge the battery. The stored power in your battery is sufficient to keep the electrics going for a while; if your alternator fails, your battery will ultimately go flat.
There is no precise technique to maintain your alternator, but if your truck’s power isn’t what it should be – dimmed headlights, sluggish wipers, or flickering dashboard lights – or if your ignition warning light turns on, pull over and seek help.
2. Damaged Wheels
A punctured tyre is the most prevalent cause of vehicle breakdown. If an undetected pothole or debris on a road surface affects your tyres or wheels, your only option is to stop and inspect for damage.
Poorly maintained tyres are more prone to problems. Check your tyres regularly to ensure they have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm. Look for wear patterns while you’re at it. Uneven tyre wear might suggest that your wheels are not correctly aligned.
3. Electrical Issue
The electrical system in your automobile contains a variety of circuits that operate everything from the headlights to the music. Problems might arise because of burned-out bulbs, defective wiring, blown fuses, or general wear and tear.
Although a multimeter and some detective work can help you find the source of the problem, if it’s not a simple problem like a blown bulb, you should get professional assistance with truck repairs in Laverton. A skilled technician can examine the electrical system and advise you on what to do next.
4. Misfuelling
You’re not alone if you’ve accidentally put the incorrect gasoline in your automobile. Every year, thousands of trucks suffer a misfuelling disaster.
If you unintentionally put gasoline in a diesel automobile (or diesel in a gasoline car), the sooner you act, the better. If you don’t start the engine, you’ll likely only need the fuel emptied and replenished.
Things get more tricky if you start the engine or drive any distance after misfuelling. In some circumstances, having the fuel pumped out and the system cleansed may suffice, but in others, mechanical damage may occur, necessitating more maintenance.
5. Overheating
Overheating is a common issue, especially in hot weather. Keep an eye on your coolant level and fan frequently to ensure that your coolant system is functioning properly. If the temperature warning light illuminates, you have a problem. Modern coolant systems should not require filling up between maintenance; therefore, if the level has reduced, you may have a leak that must be investigated.
6. Driving Conditions & Maintenance
Truck breakdowns are due to poor driving conditions or inadequate maintenance. The more time you spend on the road, the more wear and tear your vehicle will have—especially if you’re driving on rough terrain or inclement weather. To help reduce your risk of a breakdown, make sure that you take regular breaks and inspect your vehicle for signs of trouble before each trip. You should also invest in quality tires and regularly check the air pressure in all four tires to avoid premature wearing.
7. Weather Conditions
Inclement weather can cause even further damage to an already weakened truck part or system, leading to a breakdown. From rain and snowstorms to high winds and extreme temperatures, plenty of potential weather-related problems can lead to a truck breakdown. If you must drive in bad weather conditions, it’s best to drive slowly and cautiously—this will help avoid any potential damage from the elements. Also, try not to drive if possible; waiting until conditions improve could save you considerable time and money in the long run.
8. Keys and Alarms
Even though central locking makes it more difficult to lock our keys in the truck, it is not impossible. With alarms and immobilisers becoming more sophisticated than ever, many individuals need to ask for assistance when they are unable to enter their vehicles.
9. Clutch Cables
If you shift gears in a manual car, the clutch cable gets stressed. Don’t dismiss any differences in the way the clutch feels under your foot. Bring your automobile to a garage and get it inspected. If the cable snaps while driving, pull to a safe location and get in touch with the best truck repair services in Laverton https://www.oztruckrepairs.com.au/truck-repairs-servicing-laverton/ .
10. Faulty Battery
Battery problems are frequently the root cause of breakdowns. You may have a faulty or worn-out battery if your vehicle:
- Doesn’t start on time due to the engine
- Needs more time than usual to start
- Doesn’t start when you insert the key
- Red battery warning light appears frequently
Regular driving is essential for keeping your battery charged, but short trips sometimes do not supply enough power. Charging the battery overnight now and again may help it last longer. You may do this with a trickle charger, which gently charges your battery.
Connect with OZ Truck Repairs for the Best Trucker Breakdown Fixtures.
Taking preventative measures against a potential truck breakdown is essential for all truck drivers or owners who want their vehicles running optimally during their trips or routes around town or across country lines. Make sure you maintain proper maintenance habits and adhere closely to good driving practices when possible—and remember that sometimes waiting out in bad weather is better than risking a breakdown due to hazardous conditions! With these tips in mind, hopefully, you will never face an unexpected breakdown again!
